In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace explores the impact of declining migration and low birth rates in NZ. AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington breaks down global beef market volatility. Feature guest Dr Pieter-Willem Hendriks discusses regenerative farming trials with McCain’s, and Wayne Langford outlines the upcoming roadshow with the PM, addressing key concerns over the RMA and local government reforms.

News Wrap | Inside New Zealand’s demographic challenge
1:30 – Senior reporter Neal Wallace explores the significant role of migration in shaping New Zealand's population growth, highlighting the current decline in migration rates and its implications for future demographics. He talks about the challenges of low birth rates and the concentration of the population in urban areas, particularly Auckland, raising concerns for regional development.

Market Insights | Tariffs and turbulence in global beef trade
7:24 – AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington dials in to discuss the current state of the global beef market, focusing on the impact of tariffs on exports, particularly between the US, New Zealand, and Brazil. She unpacks the volatility in beef prices, the competitive landscape, and future trends in pricing as influenced by domestic and international market dynamics.

Feature | The regen ag project turning farmland into research beds
12.25 – Bryan talks with Lincoln University Department of Agricultural Sciences senior lecturer  Dr Pieter-Willem Hendriks about the university’s partnership with McCain’s to trial regenerative farming practices. The project is turning farmland into research beds for potatoes, carrots and more, using an eight-year rotation and a three-tier farmer system. The goal: collect real-world data, prove economic viability, and open the gates for farmers and students to see regenerative farming in action.

Feds Focus | Driving Change: The PM’s rural roadshow explained
22:05 – In this segment, Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford discusses the upcoming roadshow with the Prime Minister to engage with farmers across New Zealand. The tour aims to address farmers' concerns, particularly regarding the RMA (Resource Management Act) and regional council changes.